MEF2C: A Novel Transcription Factor Implicated in Human Malignant Tumors

Background: Myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C) is a pivotal transcription factor that is responsible for maintaining myocyte differentiation. MEF2C is multifunctional, participating in diverse biological processes, including cardiac morphogenesis, angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and cortical development. Emerging evidence has identified MEF2C as a novel oncogene with dual regulatory functions in tumorigenesis. However, the mechanisms by which MEF2C regulates the progression of various malignant tumors are unknown. Therefore, it is crucial to further investigate the multiple signaling pathways under different expression levels of MEF2C. In this review, the expression level of MEF2C in various malignant tumors and its specific pathways are described. Methods: This review systematically summarizes and critically analyzes the current studies on MEF2C’s biological function in malignant tumors by comprehensively searching them through PubMed databases. Results: MEF2C demonstrates aberrant expression patterns across multiple tumor types, spanning both solid tumors (e.g., glioma, breast cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma) and hematological malignancies (e.g., leukemia). MEF2C orchestrates multiple oncogenic processes, including tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while also modulating cancer drug resistance and systemic manifestations, like cachexia and apoptosis resistance. Conclusion: Given its multifaceted roles in tumor initiation, progression, and clinic, MEF2C has the potential to serve as both a diagnostic biomarker and a therapeutic target for various malignancies.